APRIL 2015
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FABULOUS YEARS
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U E Del ShoreTHE WORLD ACCORDINGs TO ‘SORDID LIVES’ CREATOR EXPLORES NEW ROLE AS COMEDIAN, ELIGIBLE SINGLE
LIFE INTERRUPTED: A CAUTIONARY TALE OF LOVE & HIV GET IN STEP WITH DESERT WONDER WOMAN JUDITH FEIN
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PALM DESERT Desert Crossing Shopping Center 72339 California Hwy 111 Get Sociali l With Us Palm Desert, CA 92260 TotalWine.com CONTENTS APRIL 2015
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ON THE COVER
36 Suddenly, last fall One man’s heart-wrenching experience with love and loss leads him to advocate for HIV testing.
40 Breaking rules & pushing limits Del Shores has never been afraid to speak the truth, whether it’s on screen or social media. This month, he returns to Palm Springs to reveal the humorous chaos of his life on stage at The Purple Room.
48 Doctor of defense Judith Fein, Ph.D., sets out to arm the desert’s LGBT community — and anyone else who’s interested — with the best moves to defend themselves against haters.
4 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
CONTENTS APRIL 2015
CULTURE
14 The Chat She’s a rebel and the queen of perseverance. Singer Darlene Love finally reaps the awards of a lifetime of entertaining music lovers.
18 Buzzworthy Ross Mathews gets all judgy, Andy Cohen conquers more airwaves, and designers plan Queer Fashion Week.
22 Muse Gary Paterson speaks his own language of art, starting with geometric shapes as the alphabet.
28 Design Insider Why create the perfect (some say sterile) mid-century modern interior, when mixing patterns and textiles can add vibrancy and character to your home?
34 In the spotlight One Night Only presents live performances of songs of the 1960s, providing a glimpse at how the decade changed American culture.
THE OUTLOOK
46 News Desert AIDS Project provides a home for sexual health ser vices, and Equality California supports Hillary Clinton’s return to the White House.
PEOPLE
52 My Style Looking to put a ring on it? You’ve got a couple of new and uniquely different options in Palm Springs.
54 Private Parts Whether you’re coupled or single, our relationship experts say you could benefit from getting dressed up and going on a date.
DATEBOOK
56 Calendar Tune in to Moby, take your dog to the movies, or get your groove on at various Coachella Valley’s music festivals.
62 Gadabout March 7 was a red-letter day for The LGBT Community Center of the Desert. See who turned out for the occasion in sexy, creative getups.
64 Our Pick Luke Yankee returns to Desert Rose Playhouse with more tales about his celebrated mother and her famous Hollywood peers.
6 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
THIS LIFE FROM THE EDITOR
PHENOMS & VISIONARIES
Every once in a while a pop-culture phenomenon occurs that resonates with large segments of the LGBT community. Judy Garland, Cher, Madonna and Lady Gaga come to mind in the music arena, though our fascination with them goes beyond their music. And then there’s what we watch, the TV shows that either refl ect who we are or TV shows that either refl ect who we are or entertain us or both. “Will & Grace,” “Queer as Folk” and “Orange is the New Black” are a few. Of these game-changers, Del Shores had a hand in crafting at least one. He was a writer for “Queer as Folk,” the unapologetically sexual gay drama that aired from 2000 to 2005. Right around the time the show premiered on the Showtime network, Shores was producing and directing a screenplay he’d adapted from a little play he wrote called “Sordid Lives.” The fi lm — about a gay son who returns to small-town Texas to come out to his funny, eccentric
PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROB LEBOW ROB BY PHOTOGRAPHED family — caught on quickly in Palm Springs. It was screened at Camelot Theatres for more than 90 weeks, and Shores often gives credit for the fi lm’s enduring cult status to its desert fans. To show his appreciation and bask in the love, he frequently returns to Palm Springs to present new projects. His “Sordid Lives: The Series,” “Blues for Willa Dean” and “Southern Baptist Sissies” were showcased as a part of Palm Springs fi lm festivals or events. Some of Shores’ loyal crew of actors have been adopted by Palm Springs residents as well. Leslie Jordan, Emerson Collins and Ann Walker have appeared at other local entertainment and charitable events. And David Steen and Bobbie Eakes are desert residents. Recently, Shores has visited to perform in a diff erent role. He’s presented his stand-up comedy at Copa, Georgie’s Alibi Azul Patio, and various other venues. On April 30 and May 1, the consummate storyteller will perform new material at The Purple Room Restaurant and Stage. Shores reveals in our cover story on page 40 how he got into stand-up, plans for a highly anticipated “Sordid Lives” sequel, and re-entering the dating scene in his 50s. On page 48, Judith Fein provides tips that LGBT people of just about any age can use to defend themselves. The veteran self-defense instructor and founder of the EVOLVE Institute for Violence Prevention recently moved to the Coachella Valley, where she hopes to continue sharing her skills. In February, Allan Joy shared important lessons he learned from his husband’s death during the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards Gala. He recounts the sad but ultimately empowering tale for Desert Outlook readers on page 36. It is Joy’s hope that his story will inspire others and prevent senseless loss of life. Another inspiring story is Darlene Love’s recent triumph in entertainment. The gifted vocalist literally gives a voice to anyone who’s ever felt like the underdog. Get to know Love on page 14 before you see her perform in early May at the AIDS Assistance Program’s Evening Under the Stars. On the lighter side, we’ve got pretty things to enhance your living space and your wardrobe. Design Insider Kurt Cyr shows us on page 28 how to fi nd the beauty in mixing patterns and textiles, and even how a bit of clutter can add character. On page 52, Palm Springs jewelry designer Ryan Berit presents one-of-a-kind gems for men and women, while jewelry curator Laurie Weitz selects items to espouse a message of affi rmation for LGBT residents and visitors. If you’re looking for an event where you can wear these dazzling creations, check out our monthly calendar on page 56 and subscribe to receive free weekly updates in email at DesertOutlook.com. Thanks for reading.
Will Dean, Editor [email protected]
10 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
VOLUME 04 | ISSUE 01
EDITOR Will Dean
MAGAZINE DESIGN Chelsea O'Donnell
CONTRIBUTORS Victor S. Barocas Kurt Cyr Lani Garfield Lawrence Karols Rob Lebow David A. Lee Nina Ruedas Daniel Vaillancourt Winston Wilde Darby Wright
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Mark J. Winkler
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Greg Burton
SENIOR EDITOR Kate Franco
MARKETING MANAGER Steven Henke
ADVERTISING SALES (760) 778-4660
CONTROLLER Sherri Maurer
DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION Mark Kurtich
CONTACT US ONLINE TWITTER (760) 778-4599 Desertoutlook.com @desertoutlook Facebook.com/DesertOutlook
ON THE COVER Independent film and TV director, producer and writer Del Shores of the “Sordid Lives” franchise plans to bring his new stand-up comedy routine to Palm Springs. Photographed by Rob Lebow.
12 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
CULTURE love's
revivalVETERAN SINGER DARLENE LOVE SOARS, PLANS PALM SPRINGS SHOW
BY WILL DEAN chronicled the dreams, achievements and frustrations of backup singers. The film was critically acclaimed, Darlene Love has had the type of career you might nabbing an Oscar Award last year. With it, Love was re- expect to find prominently featured in a history of rock ‘n’ introduced to generations of music fans in a big way. roll. But until recently, her contributions were relatively Not since Tina Turner resurfaced in the mid-1980s to unknown or relegated to footnote status. have the biggest success of her career—after fleeing an Starting in the ’60s, Love became known as the go-to abusive domestic relationship—has there been a music backup singer for chart-toppers who helped to define industry revival as inspiring as Love’s. And like Turner, popular music of the 20th century, ranging from Elvis whose story lit up movie screens as “What’s Love Got to Presley and The Beach Boys to Sonny and Cher, Sam Do with It,” a feature film about Love’s life also is in the Cooke and Aretha Franklin. Few music lovers know Love works. also had her own No. 1 song with “He’s a Rebel,” which Love recently spoke with Desert Outlook about the she recorded in 1962 with The Blossoms. She was denied movie plans, closing the gap between stardom and credit for singing the lead vocals by producer Phil Spector, background singing, and what the audience can expect who promoted it as a song by The Crystals. when she performs May 9 in Palm Springs during the In 2013, Love’s hit and musical impact were revealed 22nd Annual Evening Under the Stars benefiting AIDS in a documentary called “20 Feet from Stardom,” which Assistance Program.
WHAT EFFECT DID “20 FEET FROM ASIDE FROM THE INDUSTRY PEOPLE, STARDOM” HAVE ON YOUR CAREER? INCLUDING PHIL SPECTOR, WHO DIDN’T IF YOU GO The effect has happened gradually. More WANT TO SEE YOU SUCCEED, WHO What: 22nd Annual Evening Under people are asking about me, more people are WAS THE MOST ENCOURAGING AND the Stars featuring a performance by hiring me to work now. That’s been the best GENEROUS STAR YOU WORKED WITH? Darlene Love part — people are recognizing you for your It was really two, actually: Dionne When: 5:30 p.m. May 9 work. The amazing thing about it, when I Warwick and Nancy Sinatra. They were Where: O’Donnell Golf Club, 301 N. made that movie, I had already gone forward both so generous with their time and Belardo Road, Palm Springs from 20 feet from stardom. But it was an their efforts – even their finances. It’s very Tickets: $395 each opportunity to tell people about background encouraging to work with a superstar and Info: AidsAssistance.org singers. they’re that nice. YOU RECENTLY RECORDED YOUR FIRST YOU NEVER COMPLETELY FADED INTO WHAT’S THE RECORD THAT PEOPLE ALBUM AS THE FEATURED ARTIST. OBSCURITY LIKE OTHERS HAVE. WHAT ARE MOST SURPRISED TO LEARN YOU WHAT DOES THAT FEEL LIKE AFTER ALL DROVE YOU TO KEEP GOING? RECORDED? OF THESE YEARS? Really and truly, you have to enjoy it. I enjoy Probably, even though I wasn’t the lead Actually it feels like I’m starting all over singing those songs because you can see the singer on it, I did a recording with Cheech again. I have not had any new material out audience and see how much they really enjoy and Chong called “Basketball Jones.” Who in the music business in almost 30 years. you singing. And not singing in a medley. would’ve thought that one of them [Tommy It’s almost like reinventing yourself. Record It’s the whole song. They know the lyrics. Chong] would come back and be on “Dancing companies can’t really care about you Sometimes I tell them not to tell me if I forget with the Stars,” and make such a wonderful anymore like they did. You have to come the lyrics, because they know. impact? I also did a song with the “Singing out and do something really crazy to put Cowboy,” Gene Autry. It was called “Santa’s yourself out there. You have to be different Coming in a Whirlybird.” We go way back.
14 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 THE CHAT
and then you can claim who you are after you make it. Steven Van Zandt is a good friend of mine. We’ve always looked to this day when he could take me into the studio and record me. We had been waiting so long to do it.
IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS MANY ACCOLADES HAVE COME YOUR WAY, SUCH AS BEING INDUCTED INTO THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME IN 2011. WHAT’S THE CAREER GOAL OR DREAM YOU HAVE YET TO ACCOMPLISH? The one that I want to accomplish that has alluded me all these years is a Grammy for Darlene Love for her album. You know, I always say, “In its own time.” If it can happen, it will happen with this record. I say it’s a masterpiece.
WHAT CAN YOUR AUDIENCE AT EVENING UNDER THE STARS HERE IN PALM SPRINGS EXPECT FROM YOUR PERFORMANCE? Well you know, I love performing outside because you actually get closer to the audience. You can feel like you can almost touch them. Everybody is so relaxed. It’s a wonderful atmosphere. We’ll do some of the golden ones and other songs that I have prepared. I have a gospel number I do.
I’VE READ THAT THE OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK IS PRODUCING A MOVIE ABOUT YOUR LIFE STARRING TONI BRAXTON. That’s very exciting. That to me is like overwhelming. Once we start getting the script, it will be more overwhelming for me. The executives went to see the movie [“20 Feet from Stardom”] and they said my story jumped out for them. They went back to Oprah and she agreed.
AND TONI BRAXTON IN THE LEAD—YOUR VOICES ARE SO DIFFERENT. Yes, they are so diff erent, and we don’t know yet how we’re going to do it: if she’s going to sing or lip-synch to my voice. But I think it’s great. There’s a movie she made a few years ago called “Twist of Faith.” It’s amazing how great she is in it.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE IS THE LESSON OF YOUR CAREER FOR YOUNG ASPIRING SINGERS? Perseverance. You have to persevere. If you don’t have that persevering and faith in yourself and in God, you’re going to fall fl at on your face. Pray to God that there’s somebody behind you who will push you and fi nancially support you.
CULTURE BUZZWORTHY
Sam Smith @samsmithworld “I’ll never stop writing love songs”
Wanda Sykes HOLDING COURT WITH @iamwandasykes “I’ve always thought that Tom JUDGE MATHEWS Jones has been passing. He If you’re addicted to the weekly antics of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” looks like one of my uncles.” contestants, you know there are two new judges sizing up the queens’
Bret Easton Ellis talent and passion for drag. Joining the panel are Carson Kressley, @BretEastonEllis formerly of “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” and one of Palm Springs’ “The most entertaining new favorite sons, TV personality Ross Mathews. movie I’ve seen in months is We recently caught up with Mathews about his experience with the show: Argentina’s WILD TALES: a hilarious, hypnotic, violent What would be your drag name if you were competing blast.” on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”? Jean Jacket. Tegan and Sara @teganandsara Your favorite RuPaul catchphrase? “I feel unreasonable stress Hands down, “ConDRAGulations.” dealing with my cell/data usage issues. I wonder Do the judges get to see what’s going on in the Untuck if I could deal with ‘real’ Lounge as it’s happening? problems should I ever have Nope. I get to see it at the same time the audience does — on TV! any.” What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about how Lee Daniels the show is made? @leedanielsent I am most surprised at how emotionally attached I have become as a I’m standing with @HRC judge. I thought I could be very professional and distant, but being a super in support of nationwide fan, I’m invested in these contestants and rooting them on. #marriageequality. Join me & be a part of history During the “Lip-sync for Your Life” segment, there are people who love #LoveCantWait http://www. it when the drag divas pull off their wigs in the heat of the moment. thepeoplesbrief.org” Others hate it because it destroys the illusion. What’s your take? I don’t like it. To me, it’s a sign of desperation. Drag is an illusion and that Linda Perry illusion should be respected, both by the audience and by the queen @RealLindaPerry herself. “Having really good days. I guess I’m starting to get the Give us a hint (in fi ve words) about something fun or outrageous hang of this living thing.” coming up this season. Boob to boob drag wrestle. Wilson Cruz @wcruz73 “RuPaul’s Drag Race” airs Mondays on LOGO TV. Check your local cable “Happiness is forgetting you listings for the time. set your DVR to record GETTY IMAGES AUNTIE MAME and coming home, cooking a late lunch and fi nding Dining Out sets new goal Modern Men gets its kicks it waiting for you! Got plans for April 30? If not, Desert AIDS Project A relatively new choral group is set to show the #GAY!” supporters have a suggestion for you: Dine out to Coachella Valley that real men sing — especially GETTY IMAGES benefi t the Coachella Valley residents aff ected by modern men. Staff Report HIV/AIDS. At 7 p.m. April 11 and 3 p.m. April 12, the Modern Diners who visit any of 47 participating desert Men Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus will perform in restaurants and other businesses that day will see concert at the Jewish Community Center, 332 W. a portion of their bills go to D.A.P. The goal is to Alejo Road in Palm Springs. Their “Get Your Kicks” surpass last year’s Dining Out for Life, which raised show will feature melodic reminders of a special more than $175,000. someone or time, including “Route 66,” “Oh, What a Participants are encouraged to dine out often Night,” “Blue Suede Shoes” and more. and/or with large groups. For more info, go to Tickets are $30 and available at ModernMen.org. DiningOutForLife.com/PalmSprings. DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 19 CULTURE BUZZWORTHY
ANDY COHEN PLANS RADIO CHANNEL Bravo TV producer and host Andy Cohen is branching out again. The best-selling author is taking his brand of entertainment and pop-culture commentary to radio airwaves, launching his own 24-hour channel for SiriusXM sometime this year. Dubbed Radio Andy, the channel will include at least one show hosted by Cohen. Fans of Cohen know him as the host of “Watch What Happens Live,” an interactive late-night talk show. He also is credited with introducing Bravo viewers to a number of reality TV shows, including “Project Runway,” “Top Chef,” “The Millionaire Matchmaker” and “The Real Housewives” franchise. The openly gay executive also has written three best-selling books. Learn more at SiriusXM.com. GETTY IMAGES
Purple Room serves up Broadway “Broadway babies” in the desert will have an opportunity this spring to see performances made famous on Manhattan’s Great White Way. Starting in April, The Purple Room Restaurant and Stage in Palm Springs will host a three-show series featuring veteran theater stars Jo Anne Worley, Dale Kristien, Bill Hutton and Carole Cook. Worley, who’s appeared in “The Drowsy Chaperone,” “The Wizard of Oz” and the TV show “Laugh-In,” will perform April 24-26. Next up are Kristien and Hutton in “A Salute to Andrew Lloyd Webber.” They’ll sing some of the composer’s hit songs for musical theater May 15-17. The series concludes Memorial Day Weekend, May 22-24, with a performance by Carole Cook. Her credits include “42nd Street,” “Hello Dolly” and “Steel Magnolias.” Tickets for the shows are $30 and available at PurpleRoomPalmSprings. com or (800) 838-3006. The venue is at 1900 E. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. OAKLAND Queer Fashion Week launches Fashionistas know that gay designers have long been major influencers on what the world wears. Now, LGBT designers are getting their own Queer Fashion Week. It will feature more than 25 designers and more than 100 models, and will take place April 16-19 in Oakland. Representing the gamut of women’s and men’s fashions, from evening wear and outdoor wear to swimwear and lingerie, the participating designer labels include Crooked Mindz, Haute Butch, Inner Diva Styles, Lady Lovers, Size Queen Clothing and more. For more info, go to QueerFashionWeek.com. Tickets are available at Qfw.EventBrite.com.
Staff Reports
20 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
CULTURE MUSE MUSE CULTURE aartLANGUAGE OF tt
GARY PATERSON USES GRID AND HUMOR TO EXPRESS CREATIVE SIDE
STORY & PHOTOGRAPHS BY VICTOR S. BAROCAS
UPON RETURNING FROM A YEAR’S STUDY IN THE U.S.S.R., GARY PATERSON UNDERSTOOD TWO THINGS. His fl uency in Russian, or any foreign language, would do little to produce world peace. He also realized that art, his lifelong passion, was a language that would be his career. While completing his bachelor’s degree in Russian at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill., the artist also enrolled in a number of art history and studio art courses. Prior to relocating to the desert in 2003, Paterson fi rst lived in Boston and then in Oakland. While in the Bay Area, Paterson maintained a studio allowing him to paint even when working in the advertising industry. During his time in Oakland, he also met his now-husband, Lou Capecci, in 1977; however, they did not become romantically involved until 2002. After the couple arrived in the desert, the artist identifi ed setting up a studio as a “must do.” And, except for a period when he served as the Palm Springs Museum’s Artist Council coordinator, painting has been his full-time profession. For Paterson, the start of the 21st century created a seismic shift in his style and aesthetic; he attributes change to his mother, who suggested that he integrate his interests in painting with geometric and repeating patterns found in textiles, quilting and needlework. He says with a laugh, “Yes, it really was my mother.”
» Continued on PAGE 24
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: "A Biased View," "Diamond Jubilee," "City Block" and "Sun Block"
DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 23 CULTURE MUSE
» Continued from PAGE 23
At first look, this artist’s studio seems like a cross between an atelier and an old-fashioned architect’s work space. Like most painters, multiple canvases — some completed, some blank and some in process — populate the studio. Uncommon, however, are the highly visible engineering t-squares, triangles and compasses. Paterson points out that he also creates cardboard templates for some shapes. Like all artists, Paterson continued to study the styles of the 19th and 20th century masters. In 2000, he began his “Homage” series where he adds his own skillful, often humorous, twist to these recognized masterpieces. Paterson interprets a specific piece of work or the recognized style of an artist. At times, especially when rendering a master’s style, he incorporates a portrait of the artist into the composition. Using a t-square, each Paterson painting begins with a highly detailed and precise grid. In his earlier works, the grid and pattern seem like a sheer scrim or lace curtain, making the viewer into a voyeur. “A Biased View,” reinterprets a classic “Ceci n’est pas Magritte,” the first of desertscape image. Although a repeating Paterson’s “Homage” series, clearly references pattern exists, its use is far less heavy-handed Magritte’s classic surrealistic work: “The Son and far more subtle. of Man.” An easily overlooked thin line of purple- The use of a grid and creation of a scrim is black palm trees grounds the painting. central to “Ceci n’est pas Magritte.” Paterson Paterson applies a mid lavender paint to retains the classic black silhouette of a man create the mountains. A darker purple wearing a bowler; however, he paints the form provides the shadows. in a French blue. The background is a lighter A parallelogram-patterned scrim in blue. light salmon adds additional shading. And Trees, looking like they were created out by combining the three colors, Paterson of colored Legos or in a Bargello needlework produces a burnt orange-red that produces pattern, become the artist’s highly patterned a sense of dimension. By extending the scrim. The top third of the trees in front of pattern to the top of the canvas, a qualitative the “Man” are in an ochre, the middle third in dimension is added to the pale blue sky. an olive green and the bottom in a brown- A second shift becomes evident with his black. While trees against the background are 2014 canvas, “Seven Oh Three.” Here the TOP: Gary Paterson, artist BELOW: "City Block" also broken into thirds, the top, middle and painter replaces his use of textile-derived bottom sections are in mustard yellow, lime organic shapes with the geometric shapes The painter retains the mauve-like cinder green and red, respectively. found in cinder blocks that form the brise- block color across the entire canvas. However, As his time in the desert increased, Paterson soleil (i.e., privacy walls) typical of mid- by applying contrasting or similar colors noted, “One cannot live in the Palm Springs century buildings. to other elements of the building (e.g., the area and not be affected by the mountains and With “Seven Oh Three,” the cinder block front door, building exterior, windows), what mid-century architecture.” He not only added pattern appears in congruence with —and in was merely a repetitive geometric pattern to two new series to his portfolio, but two opposition to — the rest of the canvas. The represents a significant addition to Paterson’s recognizable stylistic shifts in his painting also patterned cinder blocks define the house’s aesthetic vocabulary. Essentially, the visible, emerged. outer façade. However, the painter presents understated pattern is visible but not in The first shift is a greater assimilation of his the blocks in a mauve-like color, rather than competition with the rest of the canvas. signature grid into the overall composition. In the traditional ash gray. To make the privacy Paterson’s paintings are regularly shown at other words, there is more subtle use of the walls stand out, the artist paints the negative Take 3 Contemporary Gallery at 1345 N. Palm grid. spaces in highly contrasting shades of purple Canyon, Palm Springs. To see more of his art Using vibrant colors, the artist, with and green. or to contact him, go to garypaterson.com.
24 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 25
BOHO a GO-GO
28 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 MUSE CULTURE
In praise of texture, clutter & imperfection
BY KURT CYR
The painters are doing their final touch- highly charming. ups. The perfect shade of white has been Textural pattern, macramé and mess — selected. It is white but not too bright and long a social taboo, at least since the 1970s just warm enough not to be sterile, but it — are set to make a big comeback. But does not verge into the dreaded yellowed this time, pattern goes beyond precision territory of “Navajo.” You gently nudge the machine-printed and flocked wallpapers. enormous art book (whose spine has yet to It’s about the imperfect production of be cracked) into alignment with the edge of handmade, tactile products. the new sparkling glass coffee table. It clicks Our very own Palm Springs Ace Hotel into place. A few askew fringes on the Beni & Swim Club was an early adopter of this Ourain rug are quickly straightened and the trend, when it successfully cast its custom pillows on the sofa are lined up with military woven macramé window treatment cum precision. fishing net to catch schools of elusive With a satisfied exhale, you survey your bearded hipsters. It seems to work — even surroundings. At last the remodel is finished those who can find a way out have one more and decoration is complete. Everything is net to negotiate. en pointe in a dazzling array of dress whites It’s the orderly imperfection and bold use that would make any navy man stand up of color — basically signs of life, I believe — and take notice. A photogenic showplace that is the driving force fueling this revival. awaiting its close-up. But it’s not just textiles from the former If that’s you, prepare for a shock. If Helly Soviet ’stans. The quilters in Gee’s Bend, Nahmad’s gallery at the Frieze 2014 and Ala., are known for a distinctive style closer runways of London early last month are to home. any indication (and I believe they are), the Lively improvisation and geometric love affair with all things louche and ’70s simplicity inspired by African textiles set is turning into an unapologetic obsession. them apart from the ordered regularity of Carnaby Street is set to bridge the Pond. Get Euro-American style of quilting. These ready for BoHo A Go-Go. pieces are daring. Scraps and detritus are Ornately embroidered suzanis from » Continued on PAGE 30 Central Asia, mainly Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, have been finding their way back into magazines. Their trippy, garish colors add splashes of Haute Bohemian into rooms lacking personality. Suzan is Farsi for needle. In preparation for marriage, families would hire a skilled draftswoman to create an abstracted floral or garden design. Not unlike our own American-style quilting bee, the soon-to- be bride, along with other female family members, would embroider separate sections. When the final piece was assembled, individual pieces varied, thus making the final textile a bit wonky, but
OPPOSITE PAGE AND TOP RIGHT: The colors and thread work vary wildly in the examples of embroidered suzanis, adding personality to any room. RIGHT: Macarame is a standout feature in the lobby of Palm Springs’ Ace Hotel & Swim Club. Photos by Kurt Cyr. CULTURE DESIGN INSIDER
» Continued from PAGE 29 created an undeniable impact that a single item could never achieve. Even in the kitchen, rows of transformed into compelling, bold patchwork spices, jars of beans all take on an inviting graphic pieces. quality. If you are obsessed with Mid-Mod and still reeling He found inspiration for design everywhere. with the thought of clutter invading your minimal, I can’t help but think Girard’s 1972 Office perfectly appointed space, you need to look no further Enrichment panel was perhaps inspired by this for guidance than the beloved Alexander Girard. early 20th century suzani with its child-like center Girard was a designer for Herman Miller. He was medallion. an avid traveler and prolific collector. He adored Mess and clutter and imperfection add a human the imperfection of handmade objects, folk art element to a home, they provide context. By and the life-force of clutter. Lowly objects were embracing that, you share your story. transformed in his hands. Matchbooks, candles, Status anxiety declared we must tidy up and TOP: “Alexander Girard,” a book by souvenir clay dolls, types and fonts all took on the present the perfect veneer of life — all freshly Todd Oldham and Kiera Coffee. PHOTO vibrancy of life. He was brilliant at combining washed and scrubbed clean; clutter free. A wise BY HURT CYR RIGHT: This Gee’s Bend quilt, on display at a museum, is an and grouping such items. He simply corralled and man once said that finding a man’s home without example of a daring use of color and displayed them. clutter is akin to looking into his eyes and finding patchwork. GETTY IMAGES. He utilized orderly imperfection and bold color no soul. On second thought, you could just see grouping. By massing similar items together, he what is on his coffee table.
30 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 MUSE CULTURE
DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 31
CULTURE IN THE SPOTLIGHT
SIZZLETHAT ’60S
Michael Childers’ benefi t revisits era when music changed
Music lovers in the audience at Palm Desert’s BY WILL DEAN McCallum Theatre can expect to hear a song If The Beatles recorded “the soundtrack of of The Doors, Joni Mitchell, Janis Joplin, Dusty our lives,” Motown defi ned “the sound of young Springfi eld, Burt Bacharach and more — all America,” and Bob Dylan chronicled “changin’” performed by Broadway babies, radio hit-makers times, then Michael Childers surely must be and emerging vocalists. The list of more than creating a mini retrospective of the songs that 20 performers includes Rufus Wainwright, Mary forever changed popular music. Wilson of the Supremes, Shoshana Bean, Lucie Childers, a celebrity photographer and Arnaz, Jim J Bullock, Mary Bridget Davies, Hugh philanthropist, will present on April 22 One Night Panaro, and Liz and Ann Hampton Callaway. Only: Back to the Sixties, an evening of live music Written and directed by Calvin Remsberg with as a benefi t for Jewish Family Service of the Ron Abel as musical director, the show is very Desert. As its name suggests, the show is a tribute much a refl ection of Childers, its founder and to the decade when many of these musicians were producer. “I wanted to go back to my roots,” fi rst catapulted to the top of the charts. Childers says. “I’m a child of the ’60s.”
34 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 Childers, who photographed just IF YOU GO about every major Hollywood talent What: Michael Childers’ One Night and entertainer during the latter half Only: Back to the Sixties,” a show of the 20th century, says he started benefi ting Jewish Family Service of shooting album covers while attending the Desert UCLA. Jim Morrison and The Doors, When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 and Rod McKuen were among his Where: McCallum Theatre, 73000 earliest subjects. Other rockers and Fred Waring Drive in Palm Desert pop icons followed after he moved to Tickets: $75-$195 at (760) 340-2787 London, England, in the 1970s: Elton or McCallumTheatre.com John, Rod Stewart and Cat Stevens, among them. Childers also worked on the sense of fun that was permitted tour with “Godfather of Soul” James through the music. For example, Brown. Lou Christie will sing a tribute to The benefi t show will feature music Leslie Gore, Liz Calloway will sing made famous by performers he’s John Denver’s “Leaving on a Jet photographed and his favorite singers, Plane,” Valarie Pettiford will perform such as Mitchell, Joplin and Laura Bacharach, Loretta Devine will sing Nyro. A local highlight is expected Aretha Franklin’s “Respect,” and Tony to be performances by a group of 16 DeSare will sing The Beatles’ “If I Rancho Mirage High School students. Fell.” For Childers and other creative Since the beginning, Childers has types who came of age in the 1960s, turned to his “golden Rolodex” to the decade revolutionized the arts. invite high-caliber performers. The “If you weren’t alive in the ’20s or desert’s own Carol Channing was ’60s, you missed the party, you missed among the fi rst performers to commit the boat,” he says. “Music, fashion, in the early days, and appeared during fi lm — it was a fascinating time. The the fi nale in 2013 to join the cast in clothes changed, the music changed, singing “Hello, Dolly.” the attitudes changed. Gay lib came in. “It’s a feel-good show,” Childers says. It was very passionate.” He estimates it will raise $540,000, The Stonewall Riots, assassinations of which $240,000 to $250,000 will of President John F. Kennedy and be net. It’s the 10th year that Jewish Martin Luther King Jr., and other Family Service will benefi t. In total, historically signifi cant shifts occurred Childers says, the event has raised during the ’60s, and they will be more than $1.5 million. addressed in a photo montage during “It’s wonderful the community has the show. But the emphasis will be on embraced the show,” he says.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Singer Tony DeSare will perform a Beatles’ tune during the April 22 show. PHOTO BY GREGG FELSEN; Loretta Devine returns this month to One Night Only at the McCallum Theatre. PHOTO BY GREGG FELLSEN; Liz Callaway and Ann Hampton Callaway will perform at One Night Only. PHOTO BY ROB LEBOW; Brian Childers, performing here as Danny Kaye, will be a part of the One Night Only cast on April 22. PHOTO BY LANI GARFIELD; Michael Childers, One Night Only producer. PHOTO BY ROB LEBOW
DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 35 THE OUTLOOK
Allan Joy holds a photo of happier times with his recently deceased husband, Ed ONeil.
36 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 NOW SUDDENLY, LAST FALL
A HUSBAND’S UNEXPECTED DEATH SETS ONE MAN ON THE ROAD TO EDUCATE AND MOTIVATE OTHERS
BY DANIEL VAILLANCOURT PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID A. LEE
he fairytale was supposed to end with the two dashing princes growing old togeth- er in their desert castle. Instead, last Nov. 22 — the day Allan Joy and Ed ONeil were Tplanning to celebrate their fi rst wedding anniversary — Joy hosted ONeil’s Palm Springs memorial. That the Kansas City native died of AIDS is not shocking in and of itself. The epidemic is not over, and the disease still claims thousands of lives in the U.S. each year. What is unbelievable is that just 18 days separated ONeil’s HIV-diagnosis and his passing.
“There were moments when I thought, ‘I haven’t readily available treatment, thereby permitting the seen this since the ’80s,’” says a tear-stained Joy — 52, a infection to progress to the point of no return. human resources consultant born and raised in Houston, Since autumn, Joy has spent many a sleepless night Texas — referring to his love’s precipitously deteriorating wondering “Why?” It seems clear to him now that health during those few weeks. “It was all so fast, with latrophobia — the legitimate, morbid and irrational fear such force. Like a tsunami meeting an avalanche. I could of doctors, hospitals, exams, tests, and treatment — was not believe it was happening.” one factor. Midway through their 10 years together, And yet it was happening. In 2014; to a gay man who ONeil had warned Joy he was not allowed to inquire knew all about HIV, how it’s transmitted, and how best about his healthcare. “He said, ‘I do not want you to prevent it; in an age where the development of life- asking me about when I’m getting a dental checkup. I saving medications has transformed a one-time surefi re do not want you asking me about when I’m going to see killer into a manageable condition. But how could it the dermatologist. I do not want you asking me these be happening? The answer is maddeningly simple: The questions,’” recalls Joy, adding that he knew crossing that only documented HIV test for ONeil dates back to 1998. boundary was not without its perils. “He consistently said “We know he was negative then,” says Joy. But, ONeil he was negative. I never thought to ask for proof. Should seroconverted. In the absence of any follow-up test, I have? Perhaps. But I had no reason to question it. I just he remained unaware of that fact, and failed to access assumed it was based on science.”
» Continued on PAGE 38 I LOOKED HIM IN THE EYES AND SAID, ‘IT’S OK, HUSBAND. WE’RE ALL HERE. IT’S OK TO LET GO.’
» Continued from PAGE 37 Speaking to AIDSphobia — another potent fear that may have been at work within ONeil — Dr. Timothy Huber, a psychotherapist in private practice in New York City and Palm Springs, says, “As long as the individual never tests, or the last test resulted in being HIV negative, then he is ‘fine’ and can report such. For many, it’s much more the fear of the label and not necessarily the health issues associated. Most know that treatment options are quite promising, but ridding themselves of the supposed stigma is much more anxiety producing, and thus, the thing to avoid.” Adds Ken Howard, LCSW, the founder and clinical director of GayTherapyLA. com, “Human behavior is motivated by two things: moving toward pleasure, and moving away from pain. HIV testing is associated with HIV, and that’s a ‘pain’ people want to sidestep.” While ONeil may have been responsible for neglecting his own health, his case was exacerbated by naïve medical providers who failed him. Joy stresses that ONeil — a bartender at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar at The River in Rancho Mirage — had never taken a sick day in all their time together. So both were surprised when he became ill in mid-September. ONeil’s primary care physician diagnosed him with a cold or the flu. But within a week, whatever ailed him developed into a respiratory infection that proved impervious to antibiotics. He ultimately became severely anemic. That’s when Joy decided that, boundaries be damned, he was going to accompany his husband to his next doctor’s appointment. By then, ONeil was too weak to put up a fight. When Joy spoke privately to the physician and his nurse, “I very calmly looked them in the eye and said, ‘I don’t care what he’s telling you, you know you’re dealing with a 53-year- old gay man in Palm Springs, so I’m going to assume you’ve written orders for all STDs, including HIV. I know you’ve done that,’” he recalls. “And I could just see in their eyes that they, number one, had not done it, and number two, maybe didn’t even know he was gay.” When the doctor subsequently did test ONeil for HIV — informing him he was positive, on Oct. 2 — he was distraught because he’d never had to give a patient such news. “At that point, I just thought, ‘You’re so at the [expletive] wrong doctor,’” says Joy. By the time Joy arranged for ONeil to be seen by local HIV/AIDS specialist Dr. Christopher Schiessl, it was too late, and ONeil was soon admitted to Eisenhower Medical Center. He was in a place he’d tried so hard to avoid all his life, surrounded by precisely the professionals he so long had dreaded, undergoing tests that left him riddled with excruciating apprehension. Just 17 days after his HIV diagnosis, he was released and sent home to be surrounded by Joy, family, and friends. Within 24 hours, the inevitable was at their doorstep. “I just kneeled next to him and held his hand,” whispers Joy. “I looked him in the eyes and said, ‘It’s OK, husband. We’re all here. It’s OK to let go.’ He took three breaths … and he passed.” It was Oct. 20. Joy has vowed that ONeil’s death will not be in vain. In February, he told the couple’s cautionary tale to those attending the Desert AIDS Project benefit, the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards. And he’ll keep telling it, forever remembering how ONeil felt after receiving his first visitors at Eisenhower Medical Center. “Ed was in tears. He couldn’t believe friends would come see him in the hospital, much less love him enough — unconditionally — to let him know it’s OK to have HIV, that it doesn’t change how loved ones feel about you. Nobody should have to go through that. No person should feel that kind of shame. No doctor should be allowed to take such poor care of their patient. No family, no husbands, no wives — no one — should go through what Ed and I went through, ever again.”
38 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
SINGULARLY SORDID DEL SHORES TAKES ON STAND-UP, SINGLE LIFE & THE SEQUEL
40 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 BREAKING RULES PUSHINGPPUSHINUSHING LIMITSLLIMITIMITS
BY WILL DEAN PHOTOGRAPH BY ROB LEBOW
DEL SHORES IS BACK. the audience that made Leslie Jordan’s Brother Boy and Fans of the talented writer, director, and producer may Ann Walker’s Lavonda comedy cult fi gures, and launched wonder when he was ever absent from their lives. After all, the “Sordid Lives” franchise (including the upcoming the 57-year-old creator of “Sordid Lives,” “Southern Baptist fi lm, “A Very Sordid Wedding”), that he’s got wild new Sissies” and “Daddy’s Dyin’ ... Who’s Got the Will?” was experiences and uncensored tales to spin. He describes in the public eye, taking the LGBT community’s haters to his “SINgularly Sordid” show as “pure stand-up.” He’ll task on social media and performing stand-up comedy. He give two performances, the second one on May 1, at The estimates he’s done about eight comedy shows in Palm Purple Room Restaurant and Stage in Palm Springs. Springs in recent years. In March, Shores took his act to Asia, performing three But, Shores explains, after divorcing actor and singer comedy shows aboard an Atlantis cruise ship. Before sailing Jason Dottley three years ago — an unexpected life change through the ports of Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and &that rocked his foundation — he was in a bit of a slump. Vietnam, he chatted with Desert Outlook about jumping “I’ve never had writer’s block ever,” he says. “I just lost my into the comedy pool, the reality of gay dating in his 50s, creative mojo for a while.” and the perks and trials of having a “big mouth.” On April 30, Shores returns to the desert city to show » Continued on PAGE 42
DESERT OUTLOOK |APRIL 2015 41 THE OUTLOOK COVER STORY
HOW DO FANS OF YOUR FILM AND TV WORK GENERALLY IF YOU GO REACT TO YOUR STAND-UP ROUTINE? What: “Del Shores: SINgularly Sordid” stand-up comedy They come, which is wonderful. I really was fortunate with the cult When: 7 p.m. show, with dinner service starting at 5:30 p.m., April status of “Sordid Lives,” and that’s about the time when social media 30 & May 1 started and impacted our lives the way it has. Caroline Rhea was the first Where: Purple Room Restaurant & Stage, 1900 E. Palm Canyon person who said, “You should do stand-up, you’re such a storyteller.” I Drive, Palm Springs wrote “Del Shores: My Sordid Life,” which really was theater, and Caroline Tickets: $25 for the show, available at http://del-shores.bpt.me said, “Why don’t you open for me at some clubs?” She was my mentor. or (800) 838-3006 Caroline, Rue (McClanahan), Leslie Jordan and I did shows together. Info: DelShores.com Really, it was addictive. I’m telling the story of Rue’s sex scene in “Sordid Lives: The Series” about when she’s on top and the bed breaks — thank God it broke toward the camera — and people are howling. [Stand-up] Sissies” meets “Queer as Folk.” It’s the gay prodigal son comes home to became an extension of my storytelling. Atlanta.
OF THE MANY CREATIVE HATS YOU WEAR — WRITER, YOU’VE BEEN OUTSPOKEN ON LGBT POLITICAL ISSUES. DIRECTOR, PRODUCER, COMEDIAN — WHICH IS THE MOST WOULD YOU EVER DO A DOCUMENTARY OR OVERTLY CHALLENGING? ADDRESS LGBT RIGHTS OR POLITICS IN A PLAY OR FILM? I sort of have ADD [Attention Deficient Disorder] of the career. I feel I do it more as a documentary history with “A Very Sordid Honestly, the most challenging thing is raising the money for my projects. Wedding.” The original [“Sordid Lives”] was a period piece set in 1998. The writing, creating comes easy to me. I’m not at home when asking I’ve brought the characters to 2014 — the week that’s the anniversary of people to invest $50,000. I don’t ever want to take investments from people Peggy’s death. The message of the movie is equality. Seventeen states have who will miss the money. It’s a very long-term investment. People are still marriage at that time. The local church has an anti-equality revival. What’s making money off “Sordid Lives,” but it takes a while. happening as we march forward for equality, all of the religious people are Crowd-funding makes it a little easier. But you can’t crowd-fund $1.2 rearing their ugly heads. My favorite quote that’s my own is, “You question million for “A Very Sordid Wedding.” The original was made for a little the creation and you question your creator.” over $500,000, but that was 15 years ago. What I love about “A Very Sordid Wedding” is I’ve documented this march to equality. Both sides are explained. Through the fictitious HOW DOES STAND-UP WORK INTO YOUR LONG-TERM CAREER characters I have, I tell their truth. My goal is, I hope at the end of my PLAN? IS IT SOMETHING YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING FOR A WHILE? movie, we get to say the Supreme Court approved same-sex marriage for As long as people will ask me and as long as people show up and laugh, I all 50 states. will continue to do it. I like the chaos of my life. I like to travel. It’s not a horrible thing to be YOU TALK ABOUT YOUR MARRIAGE, DIVORCE AND DATING adored. I’m hated, too. And it’s not just the Christians. There are people in IN THE STAND-UP ROUTINE. YOU’RE A STORYTELLER, the gay community who hate me, too. I have a big mouth. When [antigay ENGAGING, SO I IMAGINE YOU WOULD BE SUCCESSFUL AT church leader] Fred Phelps died, I wrote on Facebook, “Yes! He’s dead.” DATING. I’m probably not the most politically correct person on the issues, such as I went through a pretty abrupt divorce three years ago. I didn’t know when I talk about coming out. If you can keep your job and you can be it was coming. It was very planned and calculated. Suddenly I’m single safe, there’s no excuse not to come out. You’re saying, “I’m not going to in my 50s, somewhat famous. I define myself as a minor gay celebrity; I fight this fight with you.” The more faces we put on gay, that’s how we’re didn’t coin that. Some drunk gay man came up to me and said that: “My marching forward. friend’s telling me you’re a minor gay celebrity, but I don’t know who you I do believe that many times we censor ourselves, but I say it. are.” And I said, “If I’m that minor, you don’t need to know.” But here I am getting recognized on Grindr and not even my full face is revealed. I’m WHAT’S THE STATUS OF THE “SORDID LIVES” SEQUEL, “A trying to figure that out and how to date. VERY SORDID WEDDING”? I had one boyfriend for about four months. I met him in Palm Springs The script is finished. The cast is completed. My goal is to shoot in Texas. when we screened “Southern Baptist Sissies.” But he lived in New Jersey. I’m hoping mid-summer, early summer. I’m just not willing to green-light I find that age is somewhat an issue for me. There’s the perception that anything without all of the funding. It’s just scary. I did that with “Blues for I’m into much younger guys, I guess because my husband was younger. Willa Dean.” But I’d rather date people close to my own age who are not actors and Here’s some news: Whoopi Goldberg is going to be in the new movie. have a life. I have this friend named Wyatt who said I’m intimidating to She contacted me. She loves “Sordid Lives.” She plays Ty’s mother-in-law. date: “You have a big mouth.”
DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER PLAYS OR FILM PROJECTS IN MIND? HERE’S MY OPRAH QUESTION: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU I have a new DVD coming out this year. My stand-up tour of “Del GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Shores: Naked. Sordid. Reality,” which was filmed at the Rose Room, will I would tell him that he was OK, that he was perfect the way he was be released. created. I’d tell him not to stress so much over being thin and over money I have written a play set in Kentucky. “This Side of Crazy” is about a issues. “You will get through it.” I’ve learned to relax. Money, the man you’re gospel singer and her three daughters who were singing sensations as with, they don’t define you. What ultimately defines you is compassion, the children. She’s trying to reunite them for one last performance. And one good you do. You can’t believe everything that’s said about you — good and was in a mental institution. That seems to be a theme in my work. bad. It’s amazing how many people relish when you’re doing badly. Back to I’ve written a new TV pilot. It’s called “Hotlanta.” It’s “Southern Baptist your question: “Just relax, Del. Breathe, breathe.”
42 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 43 THE OUTLOOK COVER STORY
44 DESERT OUTLOOK | MARCH 2015 03_Outlook.indd 47 3/25/15 7:57 PM THE OUTLOOK NEWS
Navratilova, both openly gay SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC players. OPENS IN THE DESERT For pricing and info: (760) 772- The Dock, a new sexual health 9411, SportsWomanEvents.com. clinic that’s a part of Desert AIDS Project, officially opened March 16 in Palm Springs. Located on the D.A.P. campus LONGTIME GAY DISCO TO at 1695 N. Sunrise Way, The Dock CLOSE IN SUMMER offers free and confidential HIV The disco that once drew testing, testing and treatment for celebrities such as Madonna, sexually-transmitted infections, Sharon Stone and Sylvester, and women’s health screenings, and catered to black gay residents of education services around PrEP Los Angeles, will silence the music (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and this year. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). Started in 1973 by Jewel Thais- Learn more about The Williams, Jewel’s Catch One on Dock at (760) 323-2118 and Pico Boulevard off Crenshaw DesertAidsProject.org. is expected to close by the end of summer, according to the Associated Press. Thais-Williams says crowds have dwindled from TENNIS PRO HONORS the thousands of the nightclub’s LOCAL INSTRUCTOR heyday to just a few today, as Veteran tennis player Rosie younger would-be patrons Casals, a friend and contemporary choose to hang out in newer, of Billie Jean King, is launching a centrally located gay bars in West new event in memory of tennis Hollywood. instructor Jackie Cooper. Catch One will be remembered, The Rosie and missed, by some as a haven Casals & for black gay residents who were Jackie Cooper not always welcomed at other gay Invitational is clubs in the 1970s. a team tennis pro-am with
CASALS paid amateurs, including local EQUALITY CALIFORNIA professionals and junior players. ENDORSES CLINTON Proceeds will benefit the Tory In March, Equality California Fretz & Jackie Cooper Junior became the first lesbian, gay, Tennis Fund at Variety the bisexual and transgender advocacy Children’s Charity of the Desert. group in the U.S. to endorse It will take place at 8:30 a.m. April Hillary Rodham Clinton in the 26 at Indian Ridge Country Club in 2016 presidential election. Palm Desert. “We want Hillary Clinton to Cooper, who died from cancer in run and are ready to mobilize our 2013, was a longtime director of 800,000 members to help her win,” tennis at the La Quinta Resort and Equality California’s Executive opened Jackie Cooper Tennis at the Director Rick Zbur says in a news Palm Desert Resort Country Club. release. “We’re enthusiastic about Casals (featured in Desert her candidacy because she has the Outlook’s March 2013 issue), best record of accomplishment who lives in the Coachella Valley, on LGBT issues of any potential co-founded the Women’s Tennis candidate. Equality California is Association and was inducted into ready for Hillary.” the International Tennis Hall of Equality California is the Fame. Other career highlights second largest LGBT membership include winning seven Wimbledon organization in the nation, doubles titles and four U.S. following the Human Rights Open titles. Her notable doubles Campaign. partners include King and Martina Staff & Wire Reports
46 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 DESERT OUTLOOK | MARCH 2015 47 PEOPLE
DEFENSEDOCTOR OF
Judith Fein aims to empower LGBT community BY LAWRENCE KAROL | PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROB LEBOW
s she opens the front door to her Mediterranean-style home in Palm Desert, there’s nothing the least bit intimidating about JudithA Fein. A petite, friendly-looking woman, she’s warm and welcoming — someone you immediately feel comfortable around. But when Fein, a self-defense instructor, demonstrates her “Back off !” technique, you’d be forgiven for practically jumping out of your skin and cowering in a corner. And that’s the idea. PALM SPRINGS PERSONIFIED
I LOVE TO EMPOWER PEOPLE. IT'S A PASSION, IT'S A CALLING.
JUDITH FEIN
Fein — who moved to the desert in 2013 with her spouse, Nancy Worthington, an artist —is the founder and executive director of the EVOLVE (Eliminate Violence, Optimize Learning, Value Empowerment) Institute for Violence Prevention. She’s originally from Brooklyn, N.Y., where she earned a bachelor’s degree at Brooklyn College. She later received her master’s degree and doctorate in exercise physiology of physical education at the University of Iowa. Fein also has a black belt in tae kwon do, which she got when she was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. “I was a captain, military intelligence, so I can’t tell you anything,”she says with a smile. In 1974, Fein was off ered a job teaching self-defense at De Anza College in Cupertino, Calif. She also taught at Foothill College, which is part of the Foothill - De Anza Community College District, and then started teaching at San Francisco State and City College of San Francisco, where she taught continuously for 39 years. “Anytime I teach self-defense, it’s mostly psychological,” says Fein. “It’s all about the psychology of intimidation and I teach awareness and preventive skills, as well as a few simple, eff ective physical skills in addition to body language. If you use psychological awareness skills LEFT: Self-defense instructor Judith Fein says her and body language skills you’ll most likely never get workshop is “about the psychology of intimidation and I attacked.” teach awareness and preventive skills.” ABOVE:Judith Fein explains that assailants do three things —target, Fein has long been a proponent of self-defense. In 1969, she earned a black belt award in martial arts. test, and attack. “So they target somebody they consider vulnerable and that could be many diff erent can be intimidated. If they can be intimidated they’re categories,”she says. “Someone who is small, who looks going to continue their attack; if not, they’re going to afraid, looks uncomfortable, or they’re female, they’re leave. And I usually have two methods of making them alone, someone who is gay — depending on where you leave. Either they leave because I have intimidated them are in the country — or they’re transgender. “Then, they’re going to test that person to see if they » Continued on PAGE 50 Judith Fein of Palm Desert founded EVOLVE Institute for Violence Prevention.
» Continued from PAGE 49 IF YOU GO away — and I’m really good at this, I can back WHAT: “Streetwise and BodySafe,” a self-defense workshop based on Judith Fein’s book, somebody up 10 feet, that’s my specialty. Or, “Breaking the Intimidation Game -The Art of Self-Defense.” the other way, is you leave. So they decide WHEN: 10 a.m. to noon April 25 they have not won the battle for intimidation Where: The LGBT Community Center of the Desert, 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs and they leave, or you leave. And usually I tell PRICE: $20 for center members, $35 for nonmembers people that when you leave, you leave them INFO: (760) 416-7790, EvolveViolencePrevention.org in a crumpled heap on the floor. It’s very easy to do.” Fein’s expertise will be on display this month at a workshop she’s conducting at The faces some specific risks. Just this past January, become comfortable and they need to send out LGBT Community Center of the Desert in the Human Rights Campaign reported that at body language that shows self-confidence and Palm Springs. (See the information box, “If You least 13 transgender women were murdered in awareness because that’s what keeps attackers Go.”) 2014, and at least another two have been killed away.” Interestingly, while Fein’s programs can so far this year. Fein recently spoke with Laura To expand her efforts, Fein is hoping to be tailored to specific groups, many of the Meeks, a local transgender woman, about how obtain funding for EVOLVE, which is a principles she teaches are the same regardless to combat this type of violence. nonprofit 501(c) (3), so she can provide services of her audience. “San Francisco has an “I asked her, ‘How specifically would to people and groups at risk in the Coachella extremely diverse population and most of transgender people benefit from self-defense Valley. “Most of these groups don’t have any my teaching was at City College of San and empowerment training?’”says Fein. “She funding and they have people they serve who Francisco,”she explains. “City College reflects said the biggest issue is self-confidence, it’s an would greatly benefit from self-defense and that diverse population, it’s an amazing internalized issue of self-esteem. If it’s male to empowerment training,”she says. “So if I was institution, and my classes would have gay female, then the person is targeted as a woman. able to find people to donate to EVOLVE, I people, straight people, transgender people, If it’s female to male, the issue is that the male could then offer these programs [six- to eight- people of all ages and physical ability. I’ve is now a small man and small guys get targeted. week classes] to groups in the community taught people who are blind and people in That’s body language because if someone’s not either free or at a very, very low cost. wheelchairs.” exactly comfortable in their own skin because “My thing is, I love to empower people,”says Fein notes that the transgender community they’re not what they used to be, they need to Fein. “It’s a passion, it’s a calling.”
50 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
PEOPLE MY STYLE
DESERT DESIGNERS, CURATORS OFFER DIVERSE STATEMENT PIECES
BY WILL DEAN BEJEWELED BELOVED WhetherWWhethehether yyouou rrelish the outer glow and inner shimmer of wearing beautiful oobjects,bjects, or use your fashion accessories to make a cultural statement, you’ll fi nd a ranrangege oof jewelers and vendors in Palm Springs to help you express yourr style anand personality.
BE BOLD & BEAUTIFUL designer to think more about the beauty of the All that glitters is not a diamond. In fact, actual physical stone than the value,” he says. &you won’t fi nd diamonds at Signature jewelry Many of the jewels Berit uses come from store in downtown Palm Springs. Designer Brazil and Africa. Once he sketches or creates and proprietor Ryan Berit eschews what he wax molds of his designs, they’re sent to Bali considers to be a lack of ethics in mining and other parts of Asia to be made. He also diamonds, favoring other precious gems carries vintage pieces and other designers’ and natural stones such as rubies, sapphires, work, including bracelets. amethysts and citrines, instead. Still, stylish Berit’s career has often taken him to faraway shoppers desiring sparkle and drama fi nd it at places. With an education in theatrical design Signature. and directing (University of Nevada, Las Vegas Berit describes the women and men who and Harvard University), he entered the fashion buy his jewels as confi dent and happy to wear and public relations realms. In 2009, he was a stone that’s 20- to 40-karat on their hand. He asked to create jewelry for a fashion show he learned early in his career that both he and his was styling in Greece. He’d never designed customers prefer bold pieces, citing customer jewelry on such a large scale. His jewelry was a feedback and a growing demand (despite hit. Items appeared in major fashion magazines, exorbitant prices) in the industry for large such as Italian Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and costume jewelry. worn by Rihanna on the cover of Elle. And What Berit off ers are one-off rings, necklaces Beyonce has rocked his designs in her music and earrings of quality materials whose videos, he says. design and cut are often inspired by the desert Berit went on to work as a producer for landscape and architecture. For instance, some Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and operate ring bands resemble a mountainside or mid- a PR fi rm representing 10 to 15 brands. century modern building details. “I’m inspired But in 2012, he retreated from the fast pace very much by where I am. Everything is an and limelight of fashion capitals to settle original,” Berit says. in the desert. It was a welcome and doctor- And, he adds, wholesale prices at the store recommended change from a stressful, health- range from $130 to $950 for rings and $200 to depleting life. He opened his fi rst jewelry store “up in the thousands” for necklaces. “I try as a at Palm Canyon Drive and Amado Road, then
52 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 love, prompted her to reflect and encourage that in the states. The trip sealed for Weitz her idea to curate items for a pop-up shop, which she had been considering. She set up Lavish in October. It features mostly jewelry she’s designed and collected, featuring His & His and Hers & Hers wedding rings made of stainless steel, brass, titanium and other materials. All of the stones that were used signify freedom (such as moonstone) or love (rose topaz), she says. There are also necklaces for men and women, bracelets, earrings, small handbags, hats and neckties — all with messages, overt or subliminal, of love, peace and freedom, Weitz says. As examples, the peace symbol is often incorporated in designs, and “Love is love” and related sayings have been painted on items. A about four months ago, he moved his business hot seller is the “love bags” created by street to 160 S. Palm Canyon Drive. With the new artist Ryan Campbell of Palm Desert. address, he launched the Signature line. “I look for artists that are diverse in both their medium and their message,” adds Weitz, who’s BE FREE & ACCEPTING also curated art shows at Gallery 446. Browsing Laurie Weitz’s Lavish (that’s the Lavish isn’t Weitz’s first foray into using name) pop-up space at Raymond/Lawrence in jewelry and art to send a message to society. An uptown Palm Springs, you may not immediately earlier line of jewelry she designed for friends discern that what you’re looking at was inspired and herself was called Diversity and depicted by her Italian vacation. While visiting Florence male and female images in black, white and and other cities in Italy in 2014 with her husband yellow. She and her husband would wear the Larry, Weitz was moved by the frequent items to social events, where the pieces often expressions of same-sex love she encountered sparked a conversation about their meaning. there. “We saw gay couples holding hands, They continue to do that with the newer pieces, kissing—something I wasn’t sure I’d ever get to she says. see in my lifetime,” she says. Weitz’s prices vary. The majority of same-sex It wasn’t that Weitz, a longtime Palm Springs rings cost $22. Earrings range from $12 to $250. resident who has many friends who identify But most items average $50 to $125, with the as LGBT, had never seen men show their love exception of vintage merchandise. for other men, or women for women. But the Lavish is located in the Raymond/Lawrence freedom and ease with which the Italian couples store at 830 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm did it, and the nonchalant acceptance of their Springs (Raymond-Lawrence.com).
ClOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Katarina Reveche models yellow jewels by Signature and a vintage dress from Mitchell’s vintage clothing store, both in downtown Palm Springs; Signature men’s necklace featuring Buddha head carved out of carnelian; This Signature men’s necklace features a skull made of labradorite; This geometic-shaped 140-karat, yellow citrine and white sapphire necklace by Signature is a showstopper; Lavish jewelry for men often represents freedom, peace and love, includng same-sex rings; Katarina Reveche models jewels by Ryan Berit of Signature and a vintage Pucci dress from Mitchell’s vintage clothing store.
DESERT OUTLOOK |APRIL 2015 53 PEOPLE PRIVATE PARTS
sparkdating reignites the ...even if you are solo
SO MUCH PLANNING AND EFFORT CAN GO INTO DATING WHEN COUPLED DATING. It’s a time when you’re more likely to primp Even long-term couples understand the value of dating; yourself, show interest, and go out of your way to put your best therefore, some consciously calendar in regular date nights foot forward. Not only are you looking for a worthy partner, to reconnect. Date nights are a great way for long-term but you also want to show that you are a good catch, too. partners to nurture their relationship, spend quality time together, and rekindle some romance. Every once SINGLE AND DATING in a while it’s great to see your partner through a fresh When dating a new partner, you might fi nd yourself set of eyes, as well as help your partner feel prized and WINSTON WILDE making great attempts to help the person feel special, prioritized. & NINA RUEDAS admired, cared for, and appreciated. You’re likely to go out of your way to be attentive, thoughtful, and practice kind HOW ABOUT YOU? gestures. If the spark is mutual, the two of you might support How much time and energy do you invest in the person and inspire each other to be better people. At times like this, you’re dating? And do you devote the same kind of you may help your partner overcome challenges and meet attention to yourself ? Maybe it’s time to dedicate some THINKSTOCK IMAGE personal goals. fondness and positive energy inward. Reconnect with that
54 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 PRIVATE PARTS PEOPLE
lovely individual inside of you, be your significant other for a day, and take yourself on a date.
DATE IDEAS FOR ONE Plan something nice, groom yourself to the nines, put your best clothes on, and maybe even slip on a little something sexy underneath. Take yourself to a movie, treat yourself to your favorite glass of wine, or enjoy a long walk under the stars. Do whatever will make you feel good. If this means that you schedule a gym date to be healthier or a book- reading date to relax, do it. Practice self-care and aspire to be a better person. Make your space extra tidy, as if you’re bringing someone new over for the first time. Give yourself a gift and find new ways to show appreciation. Most important, don’t forget to compliment that stunning person in the mirror and maybe even write yourself a love note at the end of the night.
BE OPEN AND LEARN The thought of being alone can be intimidating and completely unfamiliar; but that doesn’t mean that dating yourself is a bad idea. If you feel anxiety building at the thought of going solo, challenge your fears and embrace your autonomy. Make an effort to get comfortable with yourself and your independence. If you’re willing to see solo dates in a positive light, you may find out that dating yourself can be a delightful learning experience. Start by considering the kind of partner you want to date and then make a conscious effort to be that person for yourself. If you’ve put a lot of energy and effort into accommodating others, you may have neglected or ignored your own preferences. If you don’t know what you want for dinner, try something random on the menu. Disliking your meal isn’t a failure; it’s an opportunity to learn.
YOU’RE WORTH IT Accept a solo date as an adventure, laugh at any awkward moments and smile because you don’t have to depend on someone else to show you a good time. Pull all the stops that you would for any other date you were thoroughly interested in, and then some. Remember that you’re worth the attention, care, love and affection. Go out of your way to impress yourself, feel attractive and valued. Use this dating experiment as an opportunity to build self-awareness and self- confidence. Recognize that you’re good company. Trust that you’ll have a positive experience, have fun entertaining yourself, and remember that you’re in good hands. If the first date feels awkward, don’t be afraid to make another attempt. Try dating yourself until it comes naturally and feels carefree, like any other good date. Go ahead, reserve a table for one and have fun being your own special someone.
Winston Wilde (marriage and family therapist, MFC39060), Nina Grace Ruedas (marriage and family therapist registered intern, IMF67572), Desert Center for Sexuality Awareness, (760) 773-3463, desertsexcenter.com
GOT A QUESTION? Dr. Winston Wilde and Nina Ruedas can help provide clarity on matters of relationships and sex. Wilde is a licensed marriage and family therapist, sexologist and founder of theDesert Center for Sexuality Awareness in Rancho Mirage. Ruedas is a marriage and family therapist registered intern. Email your question, with “Private Parts” in the subject line, to [email protected].
DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 55 DATEBOOK CALENDAR
THE DINAH APRIL 1-5 (VARIOUS TIMES) Women from across the U.S. and beyond descend upon Palm Springs for a week of pool parties, concerts, comedy shows and more at The Dinah, which celebrates its 25th year of offering an annual music festival for, by and about lesbian and bi women. Pop sensation Meghan Trainor of “All about That Bass” headlines one of the music events. Venues include the Palm Springs Convention Center and Hacienda Cantina and Beach Club. Individual tickets: $10 - $100. TheDinah.com.
DAME EDNA APRIL 2-4 (8 P.M. THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY, 2 P.M. SATURDAY) It’s time to bid farewell to the charmingly sassy Dame Edna Everage, the alter-ego of Australian drag star Barry Humphries. He brings his “Glorious Goodbye – The Farewell Tour,” directed by Simon Phillips, to the McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive in Palm Desert. Tickets: $35-$95. (760) 340-2787, McCallumTheatre.com.
GLADIATOR CHALLENGE APRIL 3 (8 P.M.) Need to let off some steam? Do it vicariously through “Carnage,” a display of hyper-masculine aggression and athleticism. See these he-men at The Show at Aqua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, 32250 Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage. Tickets: $40-$150. (760) 321-2000, HotWaterCasino.com/ TheShow.
LGBT DAYS APRIL 3-5 (VARIOUS TIMES) This inaugural festival is expected to have activities for just about every segment of the LGBT community and its allies—from an Easter egg hunt for children and adults, to a bed-racing contest and “Rocky Horror Picture Show” sing- along, to a bar hop. Many festivities will take place on the Cathedral City Festival Lawn at 68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero and across the city. Individual event admission: free to $20. CathedralCityLGBTDays.com.
INDIAN WELLS ARTS FESTIVAL APRIL 3-5 (10 A.M. – 5 P.M.) Immerse yourself in art as 200 artists display their wares – paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography and more— for sale during the Objet Trouve & Indian Wells Arts Festival at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, 78200 Miles Ave. in Indian Wells. Admission: free to $13. (760) 346-0042, IndianWellsArtsFestival.com.
PLAY READING FESTIVAL APRIL 3-11 (7:30 P.M. FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS) Dezart Performs presents its seventh annual Play Reading Festival, consisting of readings of plays which audience members will vote on for possible production during the company’s next season. The festival takes place at the Palm Springs Woman’s Club, 314 S. Cahuilla Road, Palm Springs. Tickets: $10-$34. (760) 322-0179, DezartPerforms.org.
56 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 DESERT OUTLOOK |APRIL 2015 57 DATEBOOK CALENDAR
RUN FOR IKE APRIL 4 (8 A.M. – 2 P.M.) Runners are invited to participate in this 5K, the fifth annual run in memory of a slain police dog named Ike. All finishers earn a dog trophy and receive a tech T-shirt and pancake breakfast. Palm Springs Police Department, 200 S. Civic Drive, Palm Springs. Fee: $35-$40. (760) 413- 6508, Facebook.com/RunForIke.
MARIE OSMOND APRIL 4 (8 P.M.) A veteran entertainer who’s topped music charts and starred in hit TV shows – remember that variety show with her cutie brother Donny?— Marie Osmond performs at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway in Indio. Tickets: $39-$79. (800) 827-2946, FantasySpringsResort.com.
DINAH GARDEN PARTY APRIL 4 (5:30 – 7:30 P.M.) The National Center for Lesbian Rights hosts it annual Palm Springs garden party during The Dinah weekend. Expected highlights include Lily Tomlin and Dinah founder Mariah Hanson as special guests, and an update on marriage equality cases by NCLR Executive Director Kate Kendell. Tickets: $75. Address provided upon purchase at NCLRights. org/Dinah.
VINTAGE MARKET APRIL 5 (8 A.M. – 2 P.M.) Whether you consider shopping to be a sport or a fun adventure, you’re likely to enjoy browsing these vendor booths displaying vintage furniture, art, clothing, home accessories and more during the monthly Palm Spring Vintage Market. It takes place in the Spa Resort Casino’s north lot, 450 N. Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. Admission: $5. (760) 534-7968, PalmSpringsVintageMarket.com.
CANINE CINEMA APRIL 9 (6 – 8 P.M.) Cinemas Palme d’Or hosts Take Your Dog to the Movies, a fundraiser for Paws & Hearts, at 72840 Highway 111 in Palm Desert. Tickets: $15. (760) 836-1406, PawsAndHearts.org.
SURVIVAL LESSONS APRIL 9 (7 – 8:30 P.M.) Bethany Hamilton, who became known for surviving a shark attack off the coast of Hawaii when she was 13, will speak at this Salvation Army fundraising event at Southwest Church, 44175 Washington St., Indian Wells. Tickets: $25 - $75. (760) 324-2275, Ext. 319. SalvationArmyCV. org.
COACHELLA FEST APRIL 10-19 (VARIOUS TIMES) Considered the gold standard among outdoor music events, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival — that’s “Coachella” for short — brings to the desert the hottest established and emerging musicians in the business. See performances by Florence and the Machine, Drake, David Guetta, Jack White, AC/DC and many more during two weekends at the Empire Polo Club, 81800 Ave. 51 in Indio. Ticket sales for local residents to be announced at Coachella.com.
58 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015
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4060 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRILMONTH 2015 XXXX BOWLING FOR SENIORS entertainment venues, the McCallum Theatre at 73000 Fred Waring Drive APRIL 11 (1 P.M.) in Palm Desert. Tickets: $10-$55. (760) 340-2787, McCallumTheatre.com. Whether you’re adept at bowling strikes or striking out, you’ll be a winner by participating in this charitable game benefiting low-income seniors. ‘MISS GULCH RETURNS’ Put on by the Senior Advocates of the Desert, the event includes a raffle APRIL 17-26 (7 P.M. FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, 2 P.M. SUNDAYS) and prizes, and takes place at Palm Springs Lanes, 68051 Ramon Road in There are many fond childhood memories of watching “The Wizard of Cathedral City. Tickets: $30 per bowler. (760) 202-1024, SAOTD.org. Oz.” Among them was being scared witless by that awful (perhaps, misunderstood) woman on the bicycle who’s just itching to torture OPERA IN THE PARK Dorothy and Toto. Turns out, her name is Miss Gulch and there’s an entire APRIL 12 (NOON – 5 P.M.) show about her. The Desert Ensemble Theatre Co. presents it at the It’s spring in the desert, evidenced by the return of this musical event. Palm Springs Woman’s Club, 314 S. Cahuilla Road in Palm Springs. Tickets: So grab a lawn chair or blanket, perhaps a picnic lunch, and get comfy on $18-$22. (760) 565-2476, DetcTheatre.org. the lawn at Palm Springs’ Sunrise Park, where eight young opera singers and a full orchestra will serenade you. Free admission to the park, 401 S. A CONVERSATION WITH MOBY Pavilion Way. (760) 325-6107, [email protected]. APRIL 19 (2 – 3 P.M.) Musician and arts and architecture enthusiast Moby will discuss his THE CLASSICS travels throughout the world, exploring architectural discoveries and APRIL 12 (5 P.M.) featuring photographs. Intersections: A Conversation with Moby takes This chamber music concert features compositions by Haydn, Arensky place at the Annenberg Theater inside the Palm Springs Art Museum, and Brahms, presented by Gold Coast Artists at the Jewish Community 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs. Tickets: $25. (760) 325-4490, Center, Temple Isaiah, 332 W. Alejo Road in Palm Springs. Tickets: $15. AnnenbergTheater.org. (818) 321-3673, Gccmf.org. OPERA UNDER THE STARS OPEN CALL APRIL 19 (6:30 P.M.) APRIL 16-18 (7 P.M. THURSDAY-SATURDAY, 2 P.M. SATURDAY) A selection of singers will lift their voices in celebration of opera and in Are you ready for your moment in the spotlight? This open call memory of Milt Jones, former owner and publisher of Palm Spring Life for a talent competition takes place at one of the desert’s finest magazine who died in 2014. Presented by Palm Springs OperaArts, this annual Opera under the Stars event will feature performance of operatic Special Advertising Section arias, Broadway tunes and an operettas. Check them out on the Rose BUSINESS DIRECTORY Lawn at the Renaissance Esmeralda Hotel, 44400 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells. For tickets and info: OperaArtsPalmSprings.org. SALONS TACHEVAH BLOCK PARTY APRIL 15 (TIME UNANNOUNCED) Three desert bands get an opportunity to shine and entertain their fans during this annual outdoor concert. They’re the opening acts for two established bands selected by Goldenvoice. The performances take place on the street near the Spa Resort Casino, 401 E. Amado Road in Palm Springs. Free admission. TachevahBlockParty.com.
WHITE PARTY APRIL 24-27 (VARIOUS TIMES) Men, men, men and more men — all barely dressed, dancing, partying, and flirting. That’s what you will see at the annual Jeffrey Sanker White Party. In addition, some of the hottest DJs working will perform. The venues include the Palm Springs Convention Center, White Party Park, and the Renaissance Hotel. Tickets per event: $70 - $135. JeffreySanker. com/White-Party.
STAGECOACH APRIL 24-26 (VARIOUS TIMES) Country and western music fans can boot, scoot and boogie all weekend to the tunes of Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert and Tim McGraw, as well as some of the legends of the genre, such as Merle Haggard, ZZ Top and Gregg Allman. See them perform at the Empire Polo Club, 81800 Ave. 51 in Indio. Tickets: $249-$799. StagecoachFestival.com.
DESERT OUTLOOK |APRIL 2015 61 DATEBOOK GADABOUT
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THE CENTER’S RED 6 DRESS/ DRESS RED PARTY
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1. Mario Guillen. 2. Bradford Bates & friends. 3. Louis Falzarano, Joseph Faron, Ronn Burns. 4. David Rothmiller, LD Thompson. 5. Bob Iles, Eric Rudolph, Gary Hall. 6. Sister Isabella Ringing, Sis. Merry Heretic, Sis. Sexy Xie, Sis. Devina Schnitzel. 7. Clay Sadler, Tarianna Xtravaganza, John Paschal. 8. Dale Lamson. 9. Anna & Serge Doroshina. 10. Lj Joyner, Brian Joyner, Jose Cueva. 11. Ossie Saguil, William Dey. 12. Marc Wuertemburg. 13. Josue Martinez, Adolfo Mejia. 14. John Perkins, David Hood. 15. Party guests. 16. Gabriel Koh-Gale, Harry Lee. 17. Sister Teresa Solution, Sis. Teryn McCloseoff, Michael Holmes, Marc Wuertemburg PHOTOS BY LANI GARFIELD
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DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015 63 DATEBOOK OUR PICK
Luke Yankee, author YANKEE’S HOT DISH (IT’S NOT POT ROAST)
So what was Ellen DeGeneres like during one of the toughest and most IF YOU GO groundbreaking periods of her career? WHAT: Diva Dish: The Second Ask Luke Yankee. Helping, Luke Yankee’s one- He’s bringing his one-man show, man show “Diva Dish: The Second Helping,” to WHEN: 8 p.m. April 4 and 2 the Desert Rose Playhouse in Rancho p.m. April 5 Mirage. He first performed it there in WHERE: Desert Rose 2014. In the show, Yankee shares stories Playhouse at 69620 Highway of growing up as the son of Eileen 111 in Rancho Mirage Heckart, the actress who portrayed the TICKETS: $28-$30 grandmother to DeGeneres’ sitcom INFO: (760) 202-3000, character in 1997 when both the DesertRosePlayhouse.org character and the comedienne came out as gay. Heckart also worked and/or socialized with many celebrated talents of Hollywood’s golden age, including Bette Davis, Marlene Dietrich and Marilyn Monroe. And Yankee has stories about them all. His book, “Just Outside the Spotlight: Growing Up with Eileen Heckart,” was published in 2006. From the 1940s to 2000, Heckart acted in stage, film and TV productions. Her career highlights include winning a Golden Globe Award for a supporting role in “The Bad Seed” of 1956, Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 1972’s “Butterflies Are Free,” and Tony Award for lifetime achievement in 2000. She died in December 2001. Staff Report
64 DESERT OUTLOOK | APRIL 2015